Top 20 Underrated Wine Regions in the United States

With the United States being the third-highest producing wine region in the world, there is certainly a lot of phenomenal wine regions to explore across the states!

While most wine is produced in California, many would be surprised to find excellent wine produced in lesser-known regions, such as Michigan and New Mexico.

For those looking to explore unique tasting experiences with less crowds, I highly recommended checking out these underrated wine regions in the US!

With the help of my fellow travelers and lovers of wine, I crafted this list of the top underrated wine regions in the United States for YOU to check out this year!

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West Coast Wine Regions

1. Anderson Valley, California

Recommended by Chef Denise

Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County, California, is one of the most underrated wine regions in the country. Though overshadowed by the world-famous Napa Valley, Anderson Valley’s unique terroir and cool climate produce exceptional wines that make this region definitely worth a visit.

Anderson Valley offers a completely different vibe than Napa Valley just a couple hours away. It is quieter, less expensive, and less crowded than Napa Valley, with a relaxed and down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts looking for an authentic experience without a lot of pretense.

The valley is home to more than 30 wineries, each offering something unique. One of the smallest yet best wineries in Anderson Valley is Lula Cellars. The Pinot Noir varietals at this boutique winery are superb. Goldeneye Winery, part of the Duckhorn Vineyards family, is another must-visit, where visitors can taste excellent wines while enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley. Not to be missed is the Roederer Estate, which produces fantastic sparkling wines using traditional French methods.

But wine is not the only reason to visit Anderson Valley. The scenery is gorgeous and the valley is surrounded by redwood forests. The region is also known for its local cuisine, apple orchards, and breweries. The valley boasts many farm stalls and farmers’ markets, where visitors can find locally grown organic produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked bread.

2. Edna Valley, California

Edna Valley, located in near San Luis Obispo in the central coast of California, is a phenomenal wine region and is certainly an underrated wine region in California. Located among the beautiful hills and mountains of San Luis Obispo, you will find this little slice of paradise the perfect destination for your next adventure!

Edna Valley has everything you could hope for in a wine region– affordability, close proximity of wineries, beautiful scenery and delicious wine (of course)! The valley has a wine trail where most of the 20+ wineries are located. The wineries range from luxury wineries (such as Tolosa Winery) to comfortable and relaxed wineries (such as Saucelito Canyon Vineyards). Almost any winery you visit here you are sure to like, but the best wineries in San Luis Obispo County should be at the top of your list!

3. Los Olivos, California

Recommended by Michelle Steinhardt, founder of The Trav Nav

In rolling hills of Santa Barbara County (one of the top Valentine’s getaways for couples & singles!) lies Los Olivos, a hidden gem that is often overlooked. Los Olivos is a charming small town in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. Rich in wine culture and natural beauty, Los Olivos is an underrated wine region that deserves recognition for its exceptional wines, picturesque vineyards, and unique charm.

Los Olivos has an active wine scene that rivals its famous neighbors to the north. The wineries in Los Olivos are often family-owned and operated, allowing for a personal connection that is hard to find in larger, more commercialized wine regions. The unpretentious atmosphere and the genuine passion of its winemakers have been calling visitors for years.

Visitors flock to the town’s main street, with cute boutiques, tasting rooms, and gourmet restaurants. It’s the perfect place to stroll and check out tasting rooms like Epiphany Cellars and The Bubble Shack.    

A popular way to see the wineries is to take the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, which has 16 wineries and tasting rooms. On the wine trail through Los Olivos, you will pass well-known wineries such as Demetria and Fess Parker Winery. The wineries are stunning, and the drive allows visitors to see rolling vineyards stretching out as far as the eye can see, with the Santa Ynez Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. But there is more to do in Los Olivos, like enjoying a hot air balloon ride over the hills, hiking, and horseback riding!

So, the next time you plan a wine and travel adventure, check out Los Olivos, California, one of the best hidden wine country treasures!

4. Paso Robles, California

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

Paso Robles, Spanish for “Pass of the Oaks,” is yet another underrated wine region in California. Paso Robles is a lovely, small city in the central coast of California, filled with beautiful wineries featuring high quality wines. Paso Robles about three hours south of San Francisco and three hours north of Los Angeles. It makes a perfect overnight or two day stop on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Monterey, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara are also well worthwhile stops along the journey!

Most wine-loving visitors coming to California will flock to northern areas of Napa Valley and Sonoma for winery visits. Temecula, further south, and closer to San Diego is also a more popular wine region in California. Paso Robles is near San Luis Obispo, a beautiful coastal town to visit on any California road trip for a more affordable, and more enjoyable experience.

The most popular wineries in Paso Robles are J. Lohr, Robert Hall Winery, Tobin James Cellars, Vina Robles, and Eberle Winery. Visitors can hire a private driver to take them between the wineries, or join a day tour. There are also plenty of tasting rooms to visit in town that will make tasting wines very easy to do.

5. Saratoga, California

With California producing over 90% of the wine from the United States, it is no surprise that you can find incredible wine regions even among Bay Area cities, such as Saratoga. Tucked behind the massive tech companies of the Silicon Valley, there lies a beautiful wine region in Saratoga, that offer unique wine at an affordable price.

The Saratoga Wine Trail features 10 wineries sprawled out among the rolling hills that feature incredible views of the valley! House Family Vineyards is one of the most popular wineries in this area, most likely because of the outstanding view from the estate of the South Bay below!

6. Temecula Valley, California

Recommended by California Family Travel

Located just an hour north of San Diego in Riverside County, Temecula Wine Country is a little slice of heaven in Southern California! Nestled among rolling hills and scenic back roads, Temecula Valley is home to nearly 50 wineries. While many people may overlook Temecula, it is a true gem of a destination for wine lovers and families alike. 

With this expansive number of wineries, there are numerous opportunities to eat, drink, explore and relax. Some of the most highly recommended wineries include Ponte Vineyards, South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery. 

When you visit the Temecula Valley, you can go wine tasting, tour the vineyards, play a round of golf, go hiking, hot air ballooning, horseback riding, visit a spa, or experience a taste of the Wild West at historic Old Town Temecula.

Old Town Temecula is a unique shopping and dining destination, seeped in its Wild West roots. Beyond strolling down wooden boardwalk-lined streets, enjoying great food and browsing specialty shops, you can check out the local museum and theater. 

It’s hard to believe this serene destination is located just an hour or so away from both San Diego and Los Angeles, and the stunning California coast, as well!

7. Yountville, California

Recommended by Wayfare with Pierre

You may have heard about Napa Valley, but have you heard of the little town of Yountville? Tucked away in Napa Valley itself, Yountville is an under-the-radar gem that seriously redefines what wine country is all about. 

About 9 miles north of Napa and in the heart of wine country, Yountville is a wine lovers paradise with smaller, family-run wineries. These wineries don’t make you feel like just another visitor on the headcount; they truly make you feel like you’re part of the family. To start your planning, some of the best wineries in Yountville, CA are Handwritten Wines, Jessup Cellars, and Silver Trident. 

Yountville’s vibe is very laid-back with down-to-earth people who are in love with the art of craft winemaking (and wine drinking).  

What really makes this wine region worth visiting is that, above and beyond wine, the town of Yountville itself is such an enjoyable and relaxing experience. A quick stroll down the streets lined by countless vineyards, and you’ll see for yourself how special this town truly is.

You can spend your time visiting art museums, cozy cafes, Michelin Star restaurants (The French Laundry is a must-try), or even ride in a hot air balloon. It really feels like time slows down in this relaxed little town. With wine tasting in Napa Valley being one of the top bucket list experiences in the USA, why not visit Yountville to get the Napa Valley experience but with a laid-back and small-town feel, Yountville is the place to be.

8. Southern Oregon Wine Region

Recommended by Mama Loves a Drink

Nestled at the intersection of the Cascades, the Siskiyou Mountains and the Klamath Mountains, the unique topography of the region creates multiple microclimates, capable of growing an exquisite range of wine. Here, both bold warm-climate varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrahs, along with cooler varietals like Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, grow very well with a unique taste.

The Southern Oregon Wine Region comprises the Umpqua Valley AVA and Rogue Valley AVA, along with many smaller appellations. Southern Oregon wineries can produce not only exquisite, award-winning wines but also an unpretentious and relaxed wine-tasting experience.

You won’t find any mass production in the region, more family-owned smaller vineyards that supply grapes to larger wineries. The wineries in this region focus on sustainable practices and delivering an exceptional wine. There are over 30 tasting rooms in the region and most do not require a reservation.

One of the most highly recommended wineries is Schmidt Family Vineyard because of its stunning landscaped grounds and wood-fire pizzas. Another incredible winery is Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm for wines, ciders, fabulous play spaces and even take home a bunch of lavender! 

This wine region is underrated, but is certainly not to be underestimated; you can combine a trip to Medford and the Southern Oregon region as part of a west coast road trip. Take in the grandeur of Crater Lake or enjoy the many water-based adventures available on the Rogue River. In any case, this region is highly recommended to visit!

9. Willamette Valley, Oregon

Recommended by Uprooted Traveler

Oregon is the fourth largest wine producing state in the U.S. and two-thirds of that wine is produced in the Willamette Valley in central Oregon. In fact, there’s more than 500 wineries in Willamette Valley!

The Willamette Valley produces excellent wine, thanks, in part, to its history as a seabed thousands of years ago that left behind rich nutrients. Coupled with its moderate climate and coastal influences, the valley is the perfect environment for cool climate grapes, like Pinot Noir.

This area makes for an excellent getaway, due not only to the sheer density of incredible wineries in a beautiful setting, but also the variety of other points of interest nearby. You can alternate between tastings at world-class wineries with exploring other gems in the area, such as the Blue Pool or McCredie Hot Springs in Willamette National Forest; going on a food tour of everyone’s favorite quirky city, Portland; or even swimming in the country’s deepest lake, at Crater Lake National Park.

The Willamette Valley is considered the premier destination in Oregon for wine, but most visitors primarily zero in on its famed Pinot Noir. However, this is a massive oversight, given the other stunning varieties that are crafted here. There are tons of boutique wineries crafting up some seriously tasty wines, which range from Cabernet Sauvignon to Riesling. 

White Rose Estate arguably produces the most iconic wine in the valley, with an unmissable Pinot Noir. This winery uses the unique whole cluster fermentation method, meaning the entire cluster of grapes (stems and all!) are used in the process. If you’re going to have one Pinot Noir, it should be this earthy, velvety, and complex one.

If you’re looking for a cozier experience at a winery, check out Trisaetum Winery, which produces their wine exclusively using organic and bio-dynamic methods. Between the tasting room that’s located in a funky art gallery to the palpable passion of its owners, Trisaetum feels like the beating heart of the Willamette Valley.

10. Walla Walla, Washington

Recommended by Emily of TheMandagies.com

The Walla Walla Wine Region is located in the southeast corner of Washington and extends a little ways into northeastern Oregon. It’s part of the greater Columbia Valley AVA, which is known for its high elevation and many rivers which provide ample sunshine, long days, and rich resources to produce the best possible grapes. 

The Walla Walla Valley has historically been known as an agricultural hub for the Inland Northwest. Many settlers came to the area because it was easy to grow in the rich soil at the foothills of the Blue Mountains. This is still true today! It’s definitely worth visiting the area for the high quality wine, but also the abundance of farm-to-table restaurants, U-pick produce, and seasonal events like visiting lavender farms and pumpkin patches. 

Because of its distance from major metropolitan areas, the Walla Walla Wine Region does not get as much spotlight as it deserves. It has a small airport, but the easiest way to reach Walla Walla is by car. Being only a 4 hour drive from from Seattle, Portland, and Boise, it has become a popular place for residents to come for a weekend trip to Walla Walla.

Kinhaven Winery is a small, family-owned winery with a tasting area surrounded by grapevines. They have a shaded patio, open grass seating, and a huge luxurious fire pit for those colder days. Walla Walla Vintners has a socialite-worthy deck with views of the vineyards on the hill. It’s also one of the longest running wineries in the region!

Southwest Wine Regions

11. Mesilla Valley, New Mexico

Recommended by US Adventure

New Mexico is yet another highly underrated region when it comes to wine regions in the United States. The beautiful desert state is famous for its stunning, natural landscapes. But the fact that some of that land is used for winemaking, is quite unknown. 

The Mesilla Valley is a beautiful wine region in the southern part of New Mexico, around the city of Las Cruces. The wines produced in that area are quite special and date back to historic roots from Spain. In 1629, vines were smuggled over from Spain and planted on New Mexican soil, producing excellent wine that can grow in the arid temperatures. 

Even contemporary wines are still very much influenced by South American and Spanish viniculture. Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Syrah are the most popular grapes in the area. 

There are over 50 beautiful wineries in the area to visit, that are quite special and charming. Recommended wineries to visit include Hearts of the Desert Winery, near the city of Alamogordo, and The Noisy Water Winery in Cloudcroft. The region does not get a ton of tourism each year, making the wine tasting experience more relaxed compared to other well-known areas.

12. Texas Hill Country Wine Region

Recommended by The Nerd Traveler

The state of Texas conjures up many images for visitors, but “wine destination” is most likely not one of them.  However, a part of the state known as the “Hill Country”- about 60 minutes west of Austin and 60 minutes northwest of San Antonio – has been recognized as one of the top 5 wine regions in the United States and has over 100 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms.  

The varietals produced vary from white blends to red blends, even rosé and sparkling, as well as Syrah, Tempranillo and Sangiovese.  The wine region lays on limestone soil, along the Balcones Escarpment, that not only elevates the wine, but also makes it a favorite traveling destination for rivers and hiking. Country music fans can also enjoy a visit to Luckenbach. 

The gorgeous landscape has fields of wildflowers, starting in early spring that are absolutely worth stopping for snapping incredible photos. Several companies in the region offer winery and wildflower tours that come highly recommended. 

October is known as Texas Wine Month and is a fabulous time to visit because of the cooler climate! If visitors have extra time to spend in Central Texas, the Austin City Limits Music Festival is usually scheduled in October and makes for a fun and lively add-on to visiting Texas Hill Country Wine Region.  

Many of the wineries are located within 30 minutes from Fredericksburg TX, a town full of German heritage, a charming downtown, and the wonderful National Museum of the Pacific War.

A few fan-favorites include Pedernales Cellars with its Spanish and Southern French blends,  Becker Vineyards with its Petite Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc (and lovely nearby lavender fields), and Fall Creek Vineyards in Tow (near beautiful Lake Buchanan) with its white blends, red blends, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Tempranillo. 

Midwest Wine Regions

13. Traverse City, Michigan

Recommended by Road Most Traveled

Nestled along the northwestern coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Traverse City is one of the most underrated wine regions in the country, if not the world. Although Traverse City has been gaining popularity, it is still very much a place for locals and has not been “discovered” like the West Coast wine regions have. The Traverse City wine region offers a wide variety, including sweet ice wine, refreshing dry whites, and old-world style reds, to name a few.

The Traverse City wine country includes two peninsulas that jut out into Lake Michigan and host over 50 wineries. Although the smaller of the two, the Old Mission Peninsula is home to some of the region’s most popular wineries, including Brys Estate, Chateau Chantal, and Mari Vineyards. A visit to any of these wineries will treat you to a wide variety of options, as well as stunning lake and vineyard views. Along the Leelanau Peninsula, you’ll find more than just wine. Black Star Farms, alongside their award-winning wines, offers a variety of spirits; MAWBY Vineyards serves an expansive selection of sparkling wines; and Tandem Ciders provide a wide range of refreshing hard ciders. Between the two peninsulas, there is sure to be something for everyone in your group.

Aside from the delectable beverages you are sure to find in Traverse City, you will not soon forget how much the people make you feel at home. Whether you are on a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or traveling with family members from 0 to 90 years old, everyone in this region will make you want to stay just a bit longer.

14. Hermann, Missouri

Recommended by Gleason Family Travels

If you are a wine lover that would enjoy a relaxed vacation, the Hermann Wine Trail in Hermann, Missouri is a must-visit wine region in the United States!

The Hermann Wine Trail dates back to the early 19th century, founded by German settlers who noticed the area’s striking resemblance to their homeland’s wine regions in Germany. The German settlers brought their wine-making traditions with them, and voila, Hermann became a little slice of German wine culture in the heart of America.

Located in the scenic hills of the Missouri River Valley, not only is the view gorgeous, but there is always something new to do! It seems that there is always a monthly event or festival going on, such as Oktoberfest in the autumn which is often a popular time to travel to the area. The town is the perfect retreat for a weekend trip for wineries and relaxation

The charming town is walkable, but consider using the city trolly to get around.  The trolly will loop around to all seven local wineries, ensuring everyone has a safe and fun experience. 

The most highly recommended winery is easily Stone Hill Winery. It’s the granddaddy of Missouri wineries. Their wines have won national and international awards, but the place still keeps a rustic charm. Take a tour, enjoy a tasting, and don’t forget to try their famous Norton, a rich red that you’ll end up craving long after you leave.

Adam Puchta Winery is another must-visit. The place is the oldest continuously owned family winery in the U.S.  While historical, it has all the modern amenities like wine slushies and weekend live music. Their Hunter’s Red is a must-try, and it pairs amazingly with BBQ.

Finally, don’t skip Hermannhof Winery. The ambiance here is laid-back and friendly. The best part of this winery is its view.  Enjoy a bottle of their famous wine with a view that overlooks the beautiful town and makes the perfect backdrop for wine tasting.

People can’t fathom that Missouri, often relegated to “fly-over country” status, can offer such a high-quality wine experience. This charming little town is cozy, authentic, and quintessential Midwest. 

15. Ozark Mountain Wine Region, Missouri

Recommended by Taylor from Culture Craving Couple

The Ozark mountain region is incredibly lush and beautiful and is home to the Lake of the Ozarks! The Ozark Mountain wine region is its own AVA in Missouri, and is actually the 6th largest AVA in the USA by total size! The grape varietals grown are unique to Missouri, which makes it a fun region to explore for those who love to experience new flavors such as a glass of the peppery Norton varietal or the tangy pink Catawba varietal.

Because the region is so large, there are 4 different sub-areas that all have different climates and soils that make for some very unique wines. With over 40 wineries in the region so there is truly something for everyone – from sweeter to drier wines. Although the total land of the region is large, the wineries are clustered together in such a way that many of the vineyards can be driven to easily, which makes it a great mini-road trip date or organized tour.

With the immense beauty in the region combined with scenic vineyards, it makes for a great weekend destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and/or wine.

Recommended wineries to visit include St. James Winery in Branson, which happens to be the largest winery in all of Missouri, and Lindwedel Winery which has the most beautiful surroundings. Being in Missouri, he wine is also very reasonably priced so you can enjoy your wine at the winery and continue enjoying it when you bring it back home!

16. Kentucky Wine Region

Recommended by Sydney to Anywhere

Get ready to uncork a well-kept secret! Kentucky, often overlooked in favor of its more renowned West Coast counterparts, is actually one of the most underrated wine regions in the United States! Thanks to some little-known history, Kentucky is actually one of the most iconic places a true American wine nerd can visit.

Not only was America’s first commercial vineyard, First Vineyard, located in Nicholasville, Kentucky, it’s actually still standing to this day. Stay the night there and pick up a rare commemorative bottle of Alexander wine, made from the grape that began America’s wine industry, out of commission for over 200 years!

The undiscovered charm of Kentucky’s wine region is definitely not one to overlook. Paired with the picturesque backdrop of Kentucky’s famous horse country, this is a truly magical getaway. 

While Kentucky offers many incredible wineries, here are some the best wineries in Kentucky that we highly recommend. Farmer & Frenchman is an underrated gem, nestled in the outskirts of Owensboro, Kentucky, run by a charismatic couple – one with a delightful French accent, and the other with a charming Southern twang! It’s not just their endearing personalities that will win you over, but also their astounding vineyard and exceptional wines.

Lover’s Leap Winery is another highly recommended family-owned establishment in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, crafting intriguing wine blends from their unique limestone-based soil. They offer personalized tours guided by their own dedicated winemaker! We also recommend Jean Farris Winery if you are looking to experience the elegance and sophistication of the Jean Farris Winery & Bistro, which is located just outside of Lexington. Here, you can indulge in a curated selection of local and international wines, relish in Kentucky specials and French classics, and enhance your gourmet experience with an incredible selection of cheeses.

In Kentucky, you also have the chance to explore some of the world’s leading bourbon distilleries, making it a great spot for couples with varied interests. This underrated wine region in the United States offers an enriching blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and plenty of flavor!

East Coast Wine Regions

17. Geneva, New York

Recommended by In Search of Sarah

Two hours from Buffalo, on the northern shores of Seneca Lake, is the charming town of Geneva. This historic town is one of the cutest towns in the Finger Lakes, full of beautiful views, trails, gorgeous architecture, farm-to-table restaurants, microbreweries, and endless wineries.

As more of an underrated wine region in the US, Geneva offers a wine for every palate. Its unassuming location is often overshadowed by larger wine regions but is absolutely worth a visit. There are over 35 wineries surrounding Geneva, and combining that with lush landscapes and panoramic views, it’s the ideal weekend getaway. 

Some fantastic wineries in Geneva include Belhurst Castle and Winery, where you can get a flight of 5 wines for $10 on the patio overlooking Seneca Lake, Billsboro Winery which features live music, wine and chocolate pairings, and pizza nights in a resorted 19th century barn, and Ventosa Winery, where you can enjoy wine flights on a Tuscan-inspired terrace overlooking the vineyard.

Geneva is a quiet town and off-the-beaten path, which means it’s not as frequented by tourists as some more popular locations. History, art,  culture, and architecture lovers will adore this quaint town. Tour the wineries by day and indulge in some delicious restaurants at night, then stroll the lakeside or see a concert or theatre show.

A picturesque place to stay in Geneva is Geneva on the Lake Boutique Resort. With lake views and fireplaces, this hotel is an ideal spot for those visiting wineries surrounding the area. The grounds are spectacularly manicured, you can take a free boat ride around the lake, take a tip in the pool, and enjoy a complimentary breakfast during the warmer seasons. Some packages offered by this hotel include winery tours, which takes the guesswork out of which wineries to visit!

18. Lake Erie Wine Country

Recommended by A Wandering Scribbler

Situated along Lake Erie between Buffalo, New York and Erie, Pennsylvania, Lake Erie Wine Country is home to over 20 wineries with a winemaking tradition dating back 150 years. The area’s unique microclimate and fertile soil is known for producing exceptional cool-climate grape varieties like Reisling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir. 

As underrated location, Lake Erie Wine Country offers spectacular scenery of picturesque rolling hills and serene lake views, world-class wineries that provide unforgettable tasting experiences, and immersive experiences like vineyard tours and demonstrations of wine-making techniques. 

When visiting Lake Erie Wine Country, it’s essential to try Ice Wine, a wine created from grapes that have frozen on the vine. The freezing evaporates the moisture in the grapes, helping to concentrate the grape’s juice. Wines made from these grapes are very fruity with a great balance of sweet and acidic. 

The oldest estate and farm winery in the area is Johnson Estate Winery, which is highly recommended to visit. A wide range of grape varieties are grown on their 115 acres, from the European classic Riesling to American heritage wines like Concord. Visit Johnson Estate to sample over 40 award-winning wines produced under winemaker Jeff Murphy.

For a more modern winery, visit Mazza Vineyards. Open since 1973, this winery has been merging classic winemaking techniques with modern equipment to create high-quality grapes in one of the largest producing wineries in the state. Nearly all vintages feature their signature Ice Wine, Vidal Blanc, which gives each wine the distinct taste only found in Lake Erie’s cold climate. Since expanding to South Shore Wine Company and Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, you can experience excellent Mazza wines in multiple locations around the Lake Erie Wine Country.

19. New Jersey Wine Region

New Jersey is yet another hidden gem when it comes to underrated wine regions in the US! Most people don’t even know that New Jersey can grow wine, let alone that they grow incredible wine from dozens of wine varietals!

The wine region is easily accessible from major such as Philadelphia, and makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway!

The best wineries in New Jersey are found in many of the sub-regions of New Jersey, with my personal favorite being Kennedy Cellars because of their incredible hospitality and some of the best dry red wine that I’ve ever had!

20. Yadkin Valley, North Carolina

One of the most underrated wine regions in the United States is Yadkin Valley in North Carolina. The area is compromised of 1.4 million acres located in northwestern North Carolina, but is miraculously relatively unknown to tourists.

The Yadkin Valley AVA includes 44 different wineries, 19 of which can be found along the Surry County Wine Trail. With the Yadkin Valley’s fascinating history, welcoming people, stunning scenery, and ideal wine-making conditions, it is a premiere destination in the USA for wine lovers. 

In particular, Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery is a great spot to visit if you want to check out the Swan Creek area and love wineries similar to those in Lombardy, Italy. After all, the family who established this business moved here from Italy and created a stunning Italian villa that is covered in vines. While here, you will be delight to try any of the 11 award-winning wines while enjoying the scenery.

Another one of the best wineries in North Carolina is Carolina Heritage Vineyards and Winery. This establishment was the first USDA-certified organic winery in North Carolina and grows unique French-American hybrid muscadine grapes. You can enjoy a guided tour of the property before sampling the blueberry pomegranate elderberry slushie along with other popular wines such as “The Hiker.” 

The area has much else to offer other than just phenomenal wineries. If you find yourself driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, be sure to stop at Milepost 289.8 for a gorgeous view of the valley from the Yadkin Valley Overlook.

Conclusion

The United States has so much to offer for wine lovers! While many tourists often visit regions such as Napa Valley, you certainly cannot go wrong in many other wine regions around the United States, and may even discover new varietals of wine to enjoy!

Let me know your favorite wine region in the United States in the comments below!